The Frankfurt Motor Show in September will witness the introduction of the restyled Avensis Verso, featuring a new front end and incorporating a newly shaped bonnet as well as a sharper grille, more pronounced headlamps and a new design bumper.

At the rear, a new clear lens rear light cluster is fitted, 15-inch wheels get smart new trims and there’s a striking new 16-inch alloy design shared with the Toyota Avensis. In addition, the radio antenna is now integrated into the rear glass and five new paint colours will be available.

More Refined and Better-Equipped Cabin

In addition to a new, darker interior cloth trim and titanium-coloured inserts, the new Avensis Verso features a range of driver comforts. For example, easy-to-read Optitron instrumentation is now fitted as standard, as are audio controls on the steering wheel.

Standard equipment will include electrically retractable rear-view mirrors and automatic air-conditioning and DVD touch screen full-map navigation system will be available as an option. The Toyota Turn-by Turn navigation system with ETA (Electronic Traffic Avoidance) will also be available.

ETA provides the driver with live traffic information which is fed into the satellite navigation system enabling the car to not only warn the driver of a traffic problem, but also to plot a way around jams or snarl ups even if the driver is a stranger to the area.

ETA receives coded traffic information 24 hours per day via an FM radio signal that is picked up even when the car radio is switched off. These messages are decoded to give the driver advanced warning of incidents and congestion. If the driver is following a route using the car’s satellite navigation system, ETA will automatically offer an ‘avoid traffic’ option and work out a new route around the traffic.

Vehicles fitted with the DVD full-map navigation system will also be equipped with the Toyota Parking Assist System that provides a colour view of the area around the rear of the car when reverse gear is selected. Special guidelines are also projected on the screen in order to assist the driver in choosing the right manoeuvring trajectory

Leading the Way in Environmentally Friendly Engines

Finding the right balance between performance and EURO IV compliance has been achieved with the 2.0-litre petrol unit, which meets the emission restrictions due to come into effect in 2005, without compromising performance.

The D-4D diesel continues to be among class leaders for low fuel consumption, achieving 43.5mpg on the combined cycle. Meanwhile, its CO2emissions are impressive at only 173g/km

Enhanced Safety Features Offer More Protection

Occupants are more protected than ever with the standard fitment of front side airbags and front SRS curtain shield airbags. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) will also be available to assist the driver in slippery conditions.

Full specifications of the 2004 Avensis Verso will be issued closer to the public launch date in January.